The tomb of Khajeh Rabi, a 7th-century companion of Ali, stands 6 km north of central Mashhad in a quiet garden. The octagonal Safavid mausoleum, built in 1622 under Shah Abbas, is the most architecturally significant building in Mashhad outside the shrine complex itself: domed, faced in turquoise and lapis tilework, and inscribed with calligraphy by the great Reza Abbasi.
It draws far smaller crowds than the shrine, which is part of its appeal. A short taxi ride from the centre; a half-hour suffices.